Commonwealth theme at Simplyhealth Great Birmingham 10K

Event is supporting city’s bid to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games and encourages runners to represent their Commonwealth nation

Organisers of the Simplyhealth Great Birmingham 10K are to create a distinctly Commonwealth theme at the event to raise the profile of the city’s bid to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The popular city centre run – now in its third year – is on April 30 and will feature elite teams from selected Commonwealth nations as well as representatives of all running abilities from across the globe.

“The campaign will put the spotlight on the city of Birmingham and their bid to host the Games in 2026,” said Great Run communications director, David Hart.

“By staging an elite race with a Commonwealth theme and also inviting representatives of other nations and territories, it will help celebrate Birmingham’s cultural diversity through this great event in the sporting calendar.

“With a population of over a million people in the city and an array of nationalities, we’re looking forward to a spectacular day in Birmingham.”

Applicants interested in representing their Commonwealth nation or territory should apply via [email protected] and be able to confirm they are a passport holder or born in the relevant Commonwealth nation.

The University of Birmingham already have a large team signed up to take part in the event and have pledged to support the campaign.

The Commonwealth initiative is the next stage in the development of the Simplyhealth Great Birmingham 10K in which entrants are treated to a host of music, with themed warm ups from different era’s and up to a dozen bands playing on the route.

Cllr Ian Ward, deputy leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “This is a fun event that demonstrates that sport in Birmingham is not just for elite athletes – it really is inclusive and for everyone.

“We are delighted to be able to stage and support mass participation events like this that get people active and help raise money for good causes.

“Given the Commonwealth theme and our aspirations to host the Games in 2026, I look forward to a big turnout to underline the support for our effort to secure the Games for Birmingham.”

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